Utility Custodian
The Utility Custodian supports a clean, safe, and welcoming campus by maintaining academic buildings, residence halls, dining and athletic facilities, libraries, labs / studios (non-hazardous areas), and event spaces. The role includes routine and deep cleaning, light maintenance, waste and recycling handling, event setup, campus moving services, and seasonal work across campus.
Key Responsibilities
Custodial care
- Clean and sanitize restrooms, locker rooms, showers, classrooms, lecture halls, labs / studios (with training), offices, libraries, lounges, and residence hall deep cleaning when needed
- Perform needed floor care (sweep, mop, auto-scrub, burnish, scrub / strip / wax, carpet extraction); clean windows and surfaces; restock supplies
- Empty refuse containers; collect and remove debris and trash; stage materials at designated locations
- Maintain all equipment used in work practices in a clean, safe and operable condition
Campus moving services
Plan and execute campus move requests pertaining to campus spacesMove, load / unload, and deliver supplies, equipment, and furniture using dollies, carts, and lifts; assemble / disassemble and reconfigure furniture as assigned, all while following safe lifting / ergonomic practicesRecycling and waste programs
Support comprehensive recycling efforts, including collecting, sorting, and staging materials; assist with compost initiatives where applicableHandle and label materials per policy; maintain cleanliness of recycling and waste areasEvents, special projects, emergencies
Set up and break down events (tables, chairs, staging, podiums); complete post-event cleanupSupport major campus events (move-in / move-out, commencement, athletics etc.)Provide support during on-campus emergencies (flooding, snow removal, weather hazards, or other urgent needs) as requiredSafety, security, and compliance
Observe all safety rules; use required PPE; handle chemicals per SDS and hazard communication standards; follow bloodborne pathogen and exposure-control practicesInspect spaces for hazards, spills, leaks, pests, or damage; take immediate action within training and report promptlyFollow lock / unlock schedules if assigned; handle keys / key rings per key control policy; promptly report lost / misplaced keysOperations and communication
Maintain organized custodial closets and inventories; submit purchase / work requests to Supervisor / Working Foreperson when neededSafely drive campus vehicles / carts between buildings if assigned; keep work areas clean, safe, and secure. Report any vehicle damage to your supervisor immediatelyStrong safety mindset and attention to detail
Customer service orientation with students, faculty, staff, and visitorsEffective communication and teamwork in a diverse campus communityBasic troubleshooting of custodial equipment and floor machinesQualifications
Education and Experience :
Required : High school diploma or equivalent. 1+ year custodial / janitorial or facilities experience in educational, hospitality, healthcare, or commercial settingsPreferred : 2+ year custodial / janitorial or facilities experience in educational, hospitality, healthcare, or commercial settingsSkills and Competencies :
Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, communicate effectively and meet deadlines across multiple buildingsAbility to read and follow SOPs, SDS, and equipment manuals; basic proficiency with email and work order systemsFlexible to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and during peak campus periods and emergenciesProficiency operating floor machines and carpet extractors; basic CMMS useValid driver's license with acceptable record (for campus vehicle use)Physical Requirements :
Frequently stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and climb laddersFrequently lift / carry / push / pull up to 60 lbs; occasionally up to 75 lbs with assistanceWork on wet or uneven surfaces; tolerate noise, odors, dust, cleaning agents, and varying temperaturesWear assigned PPE (gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, respirator as required)Work Environment :
Mix of academic, residential, dining, athletic, library, studio / lab (non-hazardous), office, warehouse, and outdoor areasSeasonal demands (snow / ice response, summer deep cleans, move-in / move-out, major events)Coordinate with Environmental Health & Safety for any hazardous materials; work only within training / authorizationAdditional Information :
This position is classified as non-exempt level position for purposes of the federal wage and hour law. This position is full-time and comes with benefits. The College of the Holy Cross is an EEO / AA / Disability / Vets Employer. A member of the Higher Education Consortium of Central Massachusetts (HECCMA).
Application Instructions :
Review of applications will begin as received and continue until the position has been filled. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.